USA Today via Reuters
Dec 16, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) shoots against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 16, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) shoots against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bulls have had a surprisingly disappointing season thus far. After making a run in the postseason last year, they are the 11th seed this time. Likewise, multiple reports claim they might break up their ‘Big 3’ in approaching the trade deadline. Notably, they are willing to listen to offers for two-time dunk champion, Zach Lavine. The charismatic scorer is already attracting interest from multiple teams including the Los Angeles Lakers.
Lavine has a special relationship with the City of Angels. The 27-year-old attended UCLA, a Los Angeles college. In addition, he is represented by KlutchSports, an organization founded by LeBron James. With reports of a possible Bulls blowup, an executive told Heavy Sports that Lavine is keen on joining the Lakers.
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USA Today via Reuters
Jan 4, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) reacts after scoring in the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports
It seems now that the two-time All-Star might be heading off during this trade deadline. And the Lakers are among the teams who are putting together an offer. Their most obvious piece to move would be Russell Westbrook.
Zach Lavine to the Lakers has fans turning on Russell Westbrook
Before the season, Laker nation almost expected Westbrook to move away from the franchise. However, no deal could be worked out with the purple and gold protecting their picks. Since then times have changed. Brodie has found his place as the Sixth Man and has flourished in his role. But with LeBron James and Co. desperate to make a playoff push, Lavine’s availability might see them trade the former MVP away.
Fans were sure to hope on the rumors right away and put the nine-time All-Star on the chopping block.
https://twitter.com/CookedByKentrel/status/1621185420385030149?s=20&t=i24BUMQuWOEoagCqY-_yCQ
https://twitter.com/omieg89/status/1621188826696744960?s=20&t=i24BUMQuWOEoagCqY-_yCQ
Trade: Lakers: Russ, Beverly, a 1st and 2nd for Bulls: Lavine
— gavin klosky (@GavinKloskyy) February 2, 2023
Lavine for Westbrook
— 🥷🏽 (@wordtoja) February 2, 2023
https://twitter.com/kazhifat/status/1621196016002416647?s=20&t=i24BUMQuWOEoagCqY-_yCQ
@Lakers cc: Rob Pelinka we snag Zach it’s a ship this yr w/o question. FUXK around & it’s a dynasty. LeBron, AD, Lavine, Rui, & Dennis. You sell the farm if he’s ACTUALLY available. #MakeTheTrade #LakeShow https://t.co/WTtgg2TtGV pic.twitter.com/lDG0jNIZd1
— Isaiah Whitmore (@_cigwe_) February 2, 2023
Lavine for Westbrook straight up
— ▫️ (@tsaifanatic) February 2, 2023
While a trade looks enticing, the Lakers might not have the trade pieces to attract the Bulls. Notably, if Chicago do blow up their roster, they will arguably look for a younger core to work around. In the case of Westbrook, he is arguably past his prime. The Lakers’ two first-round picks might be something the Bulls will look for to bring in younger prospects. However, the centerpiece of Russell Westbrook for Lavine might not be entertained by the Bulls.
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It all might come down to the direction Chicago wants to move in. Both Lavine and the Lakers seem to want to be together. However, do you think the Bulls will accept a deal centered around Russ and picks? Let us know your views in the comments below.
